Thrifty Thursday: Kids Raising Money to Help Kids ... with Cupcakes!

As a mom, I am always looking for projects that can involve children and help others. It is imperative to me that my kids grow up to understand the importance of doing for others. And hands-on projects in which they can truly participate (especially at such a young age) are sometimes hard to find, let alone put into action.

That's why I was so excited to learn about a project called The Cupcake Kids. It's an outreach through which children hold cupcake sales--reminiscent of front-yard lemonade stands--and send the proceeds to an organization that helps orphans in Africa.

That organization, Sixty Feet, is working to improve the horrific living conditions of imprisoned children in Uganda.

What's that? Imprisoned children?

Sadly, yes.

I first learned about Sixty Feet at an adoption retreat. While there, I watched a documentary about the work that Sixty Feet is doing in Uganda to help orphaned children who are being imprisoned in horrible conditions. The footage we saw was haunting, if anything. Children are locked up, often with no running water and with not even a mattress on which to sleep. And while the stench could not be adequately caught on camera, it was portrayed in the reaction of the visitors in the film. Since that time, I have been following the ministry's blog and have been encouraged by reading about the tangible things that are being done for these kids--and all in the Name of Jesus.


The good news is ... we can help--and our children can help, too!

That's where The Cupcake Kids comes in. The project, which just began last year, was actually started by children who wanted to help the children in Uganda. Here is more info from the website: "The Cupcake Kids was really the kids’ idea. They had been watching their parents becoming involved with a ministry in Uganda, Africa, called Sixty Feet, and they wanted to help out in their own way. 'Why don’t we sell cupcakes and lemonade on the corner one afternoon and give all the money to the kids in Africa?' they said one day. 'OK, why not?' So we gathered some friends, designed a sign or two, baked some adorable cupcakes and sat out on the street corner. Some folks showed up. And God showed up…big time!"

And that was just last year. This year, so far, The Cupcake Kids has raised more than $50,000! And 100 percent of profits raised at each sale goes directly to Sixty Feet! The first (inter)national Cupcake Kids sale took place just a few months ago--April 16, 2010--more than 125 sales were held in 35 states and four countries. The next (inter)national sale date is scheduled for mid-May of 2012. But here's the thing: 

Anyone can hold a Cupcake Kids sale at any time!

Here's how to participate--directions found right on The Cupcake Kids site:

How to host a Cupcake Kids sale:

1.  Let The Cupcake Kids know when and where you are having a sale. You can register your sale at http://thecupcakekids.org/host-a-sale/.
2.  Spread the word through Facebook, fliers, blogs, emails, and good old-fashioned word of mouth.
3.  Make some cupcakes (or other goodies) and some lemonade (or other drinks).
4.  Choose a safe location (there will be lots of kids running around!) that is well-traveled.
5.  Set up a table, hang some signs, print some fliers about why you are having the sale and shout out at the top of your lungs, “Cupcakes! Lemonade!”
6.  We have found in the past it’s better if you don’t put a set price on the goods for sale. We like to engage people in conversation and explain to them about Sixty Feet and the children in Uganda. And we’ve been known to sell cups of lemonade for $25!
7.  Take lots of pictures and email them to The Cupcake Kids at TheCupcakeKids@SixtyFeet.org.  We’ll post them on the website and celebrate together!
8.  When all your money is collected, email The Cupcake Kids the total and send a check to:

SixtyFeet Inc. 3715 Northside Parkway
Building 300, Suite 110
Atlanta, Georgia 30327

Who would have thought that cupcakes could be used to help orphans in Africa? Well, believe it! God is using children and cupcakes here in the United States--and around the world--to raise awareness of and funds for Uganda's imprisoned children. What a great cause with a lasting impact--not to mention a fun project that helps children learn about giving in a tangible way. Thank you, Cupcake Kids! And thank you, Sixty Feet, for allowing the Lord to use you to help imprisoned children in Uganda.

Wednesday in the Word: There's a sermon in that...

If my husband had a nickel for everytime I see something and say, "There's a sermon in that!" he would have enough money to buy himself a field full of greenhouses for gardening until his heart's content...and more. Lucky him, it seems that his recent hobby of choice (you guessed it~gardening) is chalked full of illustrations that remind me of Jesus and His promises~most of them basic and elementary, but after all, aren't we to come to Jesus as little children (Mark 10:15)?

Some of these illustrations don't even need words and a picture does more justice.

This is my most recent "visual" via a baggie of onions in my fridge. My hubs picked them fresh from the garden and they need a gooood wershin'.

Just a few of the many reasons I'm thankful for Jesus (in visualizing the onion as me)...

^"It wasn't so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin." Ephesians 2:1, The Message

"You did not choose Me but I chose you..." John 15:16, NASB

"...when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath..." Titus 3:5, The Message

"Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow..." Isaiah 1:18, NASB

"...and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. God's gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there's more life to come—an eternity of life! You can count on this." Titus 3:5, The Message

Thank you, Jesus, for choosing me and cleaning me up!

Train Up Tuesday: A Rainbow of Fun!

Do any of you use Snapfish? I'm FINALLY making some photobooks of pics I've had stored for a couple of years! I've used Walgreens and Shutterfly and have been pleased. I don't think I've used Snapfish, but I'm on their emailing list. They have a neato promo going this summer. You can enter photos based on a color of the week theme for 7 weeks. If you participate, you get a FREE 5x7 photobook! What a fun project! There are more details and more prizes to win!


Wouldn't this be a fun way to make a "color book" for your kiddos or a young friend? It could be a book to introduce colors to your child. Or maybe in talking about colors, you could also use this as an entry to talk about the gospel. (Remember those witness bead bracelets using the cord and 5 different color beads?...think along those lines)

Also, does anyone other than me remember "The Crayon Box Song"? I LOVED this song as a kid!



I love simple things, like rainbow books, bracelets, or songs that give me an image to remember basic biblical concepts. What are some favorite songs or crafts that you use around your house to instill and remember the basics?

-Ashlie

Marvelous Monday: Summer Reading - Free downloadable books

Summer is a great time to pick up a book and read at leisure while your children nap (if they are still napping age) or after the little ones go to bed at night or you have returned home after a long day at the office and the house is quiet as your family dreams of sugar plums or sprinker time fun. 

I recently came upon amazing Christian fiction author Elizabeth Musser and devoured her recent release The Sweetest Thing.  This is one of the best books I have EVER READ.  This month on amazon you can download a copy of one of her earlier releases called The Swan House. 

From Publishers Weekly

This beautiful story of a young girl coming of age in the midst of racial turmoil and personal tragedy in 1960s Atlanta convincingly describes how religious faith satisfies the girl's deepest longings. Sixteen-year-old Mary Swan Middleton is white, wealthy and privileged "We are, of course, another fine Atlanta family," she says sarcastically. As the novel opens, her artistic and depressed mother has just been killed in an air crash in Paris, leaving a slew of secrets behind. As Mary Swan unlocks the past, she wrestles with her grief over her mother's death and the direction of her own life. But "the Lawd don't neva' waste our pain," says her wise African-American maid, Ella Mae. When Mary Swan begins volunteering with the poor, she falls in love with a handsome black teen, Carl. As she works through her confusion about her feelings for him and her despair over her mother, she finds her true calling as a painter and reformulates her preconceived ideas about race and faith. This creative novel is highly descriptive but not overdone, brimming with touches of humor, factual Atlanta settings, historical incidents and well-developed characters. Some tightening of overlong passages would have accelerated the pace, and the novel would stand on its own more effectively without the introduction and the epilogue, which mostly function as advertisements for a sequel. But these are minor glitches in a book that stands out in recent Christian fiction for its excellent writing and overall quality.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Follow the link here to secure your copy free of charge (only through June).

You do not need to have an ereader to read downloadable books.  For an informative article that tells you how to read them go here.  One of the publishing groups that I have found to publish highly credible work is Tyndale Publishing.  I recently discovered that each month they offer several of their books to download for free.  Tyndale is offering four books in June only  and one is specifically geared towards tweens and teen girls so if you have one in your household it may be a nice addition to their summer reading.  Hurry over here to see what is being offered this month and if something looks appealing take a minute to download your selection(s)  before we enter July.

Happy Monday and Happy Reading,

Caroline

Stay at Home Saturday: Savory Smackerels~Mary Mary, How does your garden taste?

I hope our lil series on No mo suppahtime rut has indeed helped you get outta your recipe ruts. It seems that series could go on for weeks but we are going to switch gears a bit. Perhaps we will one day return to it as the need arises. Now, it's time for a new series!

I am blessed that my hubs has taken up gardening as his hobby. There is definitely a satisfaction to "livin' off the land." Before his gardening days and even now for the produce that isn't "in", the roadside and local produce stands are one of our favorite parts of summer. It allows you to support the local farmers, the produce is fresher than in the store and you can't beat the prices. It's a win win!

So here is the question...if you aren't a canner, you have produce coming out your ears that you don't want to waste and you've shared the bounty...what can you possibly do with all of this summertime produce?!? It's time to be creative, girls. Hence our new series Mary, Mary how does your garden taste? where we are hoping to brainstorm and share some substantial ways to put your garden and local produce stand purchases to some serious use.

Let's start with this fine specimen, shall we?

Perhaps you've heard the quote, "A cucumber should be well sliced, and dressed with pepper and vinegar, and then thrown out." Come on. There HAS to be something more you can do with cucumbers than put vinegar on them, use as a salad topping or make pickles.

Here are my thoughts:

• I'm dying to make a yummy cucumber sauce. I'm talking Magianno's style. Do any of you have a surefire recipe you're willing to share?
• Musing Foodie kindly shared a homemade buttermilk ranch recipe that you will want to drink. Perhaps we can twist her arm to share it here. We wanted a light dinner last night so I melted some smoked gouda on flatbread, topped with cucumber slices and drizzled it with this dressing. It was so refreshing and a hit with even my meat-loving man.
• I know I love a hotel and/or spa or when I enter its lobby or waiting area and there are water pitchers full of ice cold water, cucumber, lemon and/or mint. You could do this at home for a refreshing treat!
• Then, we have orzo. Once again, Musing Foodie pulls through with delish orzo which I reviewed here or another orzo I've made and love is here.

Sooo....have you come up with any outta the box ways to serve up those cukes?!?!? Do tell b/c I have mucho begging to try out your tricks and I don't see canning pickles in my near future. Coming next week...peaches!!!

Free For All Friday: Friendship

Proverbs 17:17a "A friend loves at all times..."

They say it takes a friend to be a friend. But once you have them, what do you do? I've also heard the saying that you can count your true friends on one hand. Interesting thought when you stop to ponder it. I promise I'll throw something food related in here to live up to my musing foodie name :) but I wanted to chat about this topic a bit as it's relevant to all of us.

We all have different groups of friends - perhaps a small group or Sunday school class through church, high school or college girlfriends, co-workers, moms you call friends through commonalities - the gym, school or your neighborhood, childhood friends you've known all your life, best friends, A-listers, B-listers...you get the picture.

I want to focus on your core group of friends - the ones you call when you need to vent, cry, yell and have them understand your perspective. The ones you immediately turn to for prayer, council or advice. The ones that you know will not think less of you when you make a mistake, will tell you if there is something in your nose or teeth and can get away with advising you to retire the hideous outfit.

Friendships take work and I've found I get from a friendship what I put into it. If I don't communicate, fail to reach out, don't pray for them, seek out opportunities to show I care or spend time with them, then they don't seem to be at arms reach.

I have made a committment to the friends I hold dear (even though I haven't verbalized it to them) that if I want them in my life, I will put forth effort to keep them there, because they mean something to me and I need them. We're all busy - but that few seconds to send a quick email goes a long way. See something cute as you're perusing a catalogue or internet site? I have a girlfriend who thinks of me everytime she sees something cute and culinary and she will send it my way.

What about the phone? Often neglected in our texting or emailing prone society, a real live phone conversation where you can here emotion behind the words makes you feel like they're sitting right there with you. I love a good phone chat and love quick check ins, questions, thoughts or long conversations. Phone talking time is not a relic of pre-smart phone days gone by.

And for the Emily Post lovers out there, you understand completely the power of a hand written note. I am a firm believer in thank you notes (almost to a crazed fault) and send them whenever the opportunity arises, but I'm also in the habit of purchasing a handful of cards from a bookstore that will fit the bill when a girlfriend needs a boost. Sometimes a friend needs to see those words in print so they can re-read them and save them in their Bible or on a bedside table.

The gift of time is precious and face to face time spent with a friend is like water to my basil plant - it thrives and grows! Sometimes grabbing a friend to just run an errand together helps life seem less hectic. And what about helping them in their laundry list of projects? Packing for a move, picking out a bra (ughhhh!). I've hated that since the 4th grade when Dustin Schlenbaker saw me buying my very first one. I tell you, I'm scarred for life.



And gifts - one of my favorites. Showing a friend you care through a thoughtful gesture of a casserole, cookies/brownies, cupcakes, candy, notepads/trinkets that remind you of them, watching their kids, bringing them a smoothie - there are zillions of ways to say 'hey - love you!' I love to give away baked goods (there's my foodie plug!). It's a great way to show you care.

To have a friend, you definitely have to be one and it does take effort on your part. The rewards reaped from this effort make your cup runneth over. In the past year, I've grown closer to some friends, made some wonderful new ones and nurtured some I've had for years and years. My life is full and rich thanks to the wonderful friends God has placed in my life.

I encourage you to work at your friendships as well - someone out there needs you!



Luke 6:31 "And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them."

Love,
CC

(Photos courtesy of Caroline Ghetes Photography)

Summer Activity List Ideas

Yesterday the post focused on creating a Summer List as a focal point to utilize family time during the summer months. 

Below please find some ideas to consider for your personal list.  Remember, have some fun, educational, spiritual and serving items to do together.  These are merely ideas.

Do what appeals to your family with as few or as many as desired.

Eat dinner outside
Go to the ocean
Visit a local museum
Visit a zoo
Play miniature golf
Go bowling
Boat trip
Visit a water park
Visit a splash pad
Watch a movie outside
Go camping
Camp in the living room
Attend a concert
Wash family cars together and get wet on purpose!
Go out for ice/cream or frozen yogurt
Water balloon fights
Catch fireflies
Paint outside
Get a slurpee
Bubbles outside
Sprinkler fun
Chalk writing in the driveway
Window writing (use window pens)
Have a grill night
Morning walk
Paint crayon rocks
Library time
Shaving cream fight
Drive Daddy to work and have breakfast
Bike riding
Spend night at local hotel
Learn a new board game
Have a game night
Press flowers
Document one day in photographs from start to end
Go out for breakfast
Visit a relative and take lots of photographs of your time together
Complete reading program at local library or one of the local bookstores
Go fishing
Learn a new joke
Memorize scripture
Hopscotch on bubble wrap
Get Chinese take-out
Create homemade t-shirts
Send photographs to loved ones
Write postcards to loved ones
Vacation Bible School
Skype someone
Write to some missionaries
Make treats for neighbors and deliver as a family
Make treats for the local fire station and deliver as a family
Prepare boxes for Operation Christmas Child
Have a silly string fight (outside)
Try a new vegetable
Try a new fruit
Have a scavenger hunt
4th of July Parade
Have a GIANT family sundae
Surprise Dad at work for lunch
Go on a surprise picnic after church or one evening
Fly a kite
Visit a new restaurant
Go on a secret destination (surprise outing night)
Have a garage sale
Go garage sale hunting
Indoor picnic on the living room floor
Unbirthday party
Breakfast for dinner
Baking time with Mom
Date nights with Mom/Dad
Frisbee
S'mores
Go to a candy store and let each child select a special treat

Make lots of fun memories this summer!  Please share your ideas in the comments.

Blessings,

Caroline

Train Up Tuesday: Summer List 2011

A friend from University posted a fabulous idea on Facebook  regarding a Summer List.  Sunday night we had a family meet to discuss our summer wish list.  We asked the boys what they would love to do this summer and also some things we could do for others.  Our family meeting list is now our Summer List 2011 which is now on the back of our front door.

This is our first year to incorporate a Summer List, however, I ran with the idea based on the fact that lists inspire me. It is a visual for my boys to see the fun that we have in store during summer break.  It will serve as a reminder to set aside time for  activities that are important to each family member which will become memories treasured in our heart.

Think of activities that can be in the following categories:

1.  Spiritual
2.  Educational

3.  Fun

4.  Service

The list can be on a board or just on a sheet of notebook paper.  Remember, you don't have to accomplish everything on your list, just do what is achievable and hopefully many items on your list will make a return appearance in 2012.

Tomorrow I will post some ideas to get you going on your own personal list.

Happy Summer Sisters,

Caroline

Stay at Home Saturday: No mo suppahtime rut Part 6

One of my favorite dishes to try when we go out to eat on vacations (especially the beach) is fish tacos. They just feel vaction-y to me. At home, it seems like everytime I get on Facebook, someone I know is checking into Cabos Fish Taco, a local hot spot,  for some seaside flavah. Do you have a favorite go-to place for fish tacos?

Turns out, fish tacos are one of Ashlie's favorite things to make at home when needing to get outta her suppahtime rut. Here are her tried n' true taco tips. If you're not a seafood lover, perhaps you may like to try these tips w/ a lil' poultry?

Growing up we had tacos often, but never did I have a fish taco until a few years ago in San Diego.  They were okay, but the best ones I've tasted so far are those made by my amazing sister-in-law.

It's SUPER easy.  Choose your fish.  I buy frozen tilapia on sale at Aldi's or Bi-Lo.  Thaw it, then marinade it.  There are lots of way to do a marinade, but I simply buy those McCormick Grill packs.  I like the Mojo Lime.  YUM!

After marinading for about 15 minutes, bake as you normally would (about 20 minutes).

Next, decide on your toppings.  I like fresh cilantro, avocado, lime juice, lettuce, Rotel chilis, a little cheese, and sour cream.  Last time we had these, I also made the quesadillas from "Deceptively Delicious".  One of the hidden ingredients for that recipe is blending 1/4 cup of light sour cream with 1/2 canned navy beans drained and rinsed.  That actually tasted pretty good, so we used that instead of simple sour cream with our tacos. ;-)

A really good and easy side for this is to take a can of fiesta corn

Drain it and marinade it in a favorite dressing (think vinegar based, like Italian).  Then, serve over spinach or lettuce leaves.

Can't get much easier or more colorful than that!
-Ashlie

Thrifty Thursday: Car Seat Safety

Are your car seats safe?!??! Hmmmm. Of course, we'd like to think so but it's nice to have an official seal of approval. Thanks to Britax (maker of our #1 fav car seats), you can set your mind at ease for your summer travels!

I recently discovered that Britax is having monthly checking stations throughout 2011 providing free care seat safety inspection. I believe they did this also in 2010 so I don't know where I've been. Anywho...lucky for us, their North American headquarters is local so local peeps or anyone venturing to Carowinds and in the vicinity of the Charlotte, NC area can make a quick detour right off Carowinds Blvd. to:

13501 South Ridge Drive
Charlotte, NC 28273

The Checking Station schedule for the remainder of 2011 is:

June 17, 2011	8 am - 12 pm
July 15, 2011	8 am - 12 pm
August 19, 2011	8 am - 12 pm
September 23, 2011	8 am - 12 pm
October 21, 2011	8 am - 12 pm
November 18, 2011	8 am - 12 pm
December 16, 2011	8 am - 12 pm

You don't necessarily need a Britax car seat. All manufacturers are welcome. No appointments needed and you should allow 30 minutes per child. For best results, be sure to bring:

• Your safety seat and all parts, accessories, and instructions 
• A second adult to assist with watching your child while you learn how to install your car seat child
• Your vehicle and vehicle owner’s manual 
• Your child  

For further information, click here.

Don't worry--if you're not planning any visits and/or don't live in/near Charlotte, you can visit www.safekids.org for a checking station near you!

Sidenote (just to check if you're reaaaaalllly reading): Although I definitely would not expect it or presume it upon Britax, I do happen to have one friend that recently went to one of these inspections and her car seat was near expiration so Britax gave her a brand new, free, MAC DADDY car seat. Once again, I wouldn't expect it or presume it but never hurts to have a little incentive to make safety #1. :) Let's hear it for Britax being committed to keeping our munchkins safe!

'Oh be careful little eyes what you see…'

It’s funny to me that whenever an idea hits me to write an article for RWAV, it never involves food – and HPS invited me most likely based on my food blog. I don’t think she’ll mind my rabbit trails, since we’ve been getting out of our summertime dinner ruts with the great recipes and ideas she’s been sharing.

Summertime brings lots of fun activities for kids – the pool, playgroups, popsicles, camp, family vacations, VBS and movies…to name a few. Some of the national movie theater chains are offering free or $1 kids movies throughout the summer and this was marked on our calendar as a must do. This week was the launch and I excitedly pulled up the list of movies being shown. All were rated either G or PG – perfect for kids, right? Well, not quite.

I knew the content of a handful of the movies being shown and the rest were a bit foreign to me…so I did a little research. Focus on the Family has a movie review section on their website where you can pull up a review on just about any movie you can think of. www.Pluggedinonline.com gives you the synopsis of the story line, the positive elements, spiritual content, sexual content, violent content, if there is any crude or profane language, drug and alcohol use/abuse, negative elements and their overall conclusion.

I found this to be a wealth of knowledge and crossed out a few movies from the kid’s series that my 4 year old impressionable son will not be seeing. As his parent, it’s my job to help mold and shape him into a Godly young man. There were themes, words, inuendos and storylines that just weren’t appropriate for his little eyes to see and ears to hear, even though they had the ‘safe’ rating. Knowing I can’t keep him in a bubble and that at some point he will face the raw truth of this world, I want to take his formative years where he is most impressionable and fill them with the tools he will need to ward off temptations and pitfalls as he gets older.

Proverbs 4:23 ‘Above all guard your heard for it is the wellspring of life.’

I won’t list the ones I erased from our list, as it’s up to each family to decide for themselves, and some subject matter is more age appropriate for older children. I do want to recommend you visit the website if you have a chance – it’s a real eye opener. This site might be helpful when deciding on a movie for your next date night too. :)

I hope each of you are enjoying your summer!
CC

Train Up Tuesday: Celebrate the Flag!

Has today just passed you by? I mean, did you wake up thinking..."just another Tuesday"? Did you know it is "Flag Day"? Does it matter? I have a love/hate relationship with the spring/summer holidays from Memorial Day through Veterans Day (with D-Day, Flag Day, 4th of July) all of it wrapped up in these nice, beautiful seasons. On the one hand, you have a great 5 months to celebrate the greatness of patriotism. On the other, you have a lot of people (including myself) who see it all get jumbled up into "one" idea of celebration. Each of these holidays mark very specific points for our country - honoring the fallen brave servicemen and women, remembering specific attacks, the "adoption" of our flag, our country's "birthday" of freedom, honoring those who have served. It is a beautiful time indeed, but it is so easy to gloss over all of it and not take time to make each of these days special.

In the past, I've not really made a big deal over "flag" day. I'd like to change that. Last year, we visited my Dad's grave on Memorial Day weekend (he was a Marine and actually passed around that time many years ago) and went to our first 4th of July parade . I've not found a lot on "Flag Day" in the way of crafts, but perhaps these links will get you started:

Enchanted Learning has quite a few great printables to help you.

Apples 4 Teacher has SEVERAL links to help you talk about Flag Day and to make things for celebrating.

I think this would be a fun flag to make... "Let freedom ring"


...but I don't know my boys would be able to do much in helping me with it. So, our craft will probably be basic and made from whatever craft bits I have on hand.

Maybe, if your family enjoys exploring "The Flag", you could talk about making your own family flag, filled with symbols that mean something to you, your interests and your values! I'd like to do that at some point with my family. Perhaps revisiting the idea every few years to see if anything changes.

Hope it's more than just another Tuesday for you!
Ashlie

Marvelous Monday: No mo Suppahtime rut~Part 5!

Before we begin today's fun, we need to cover one item of bidness. I've been getting some feedback from peeps trying to comment but having trouble. I had tightened comment securities to eliminate those dirty spam comments but didn't mean to cut out your comments! So...if you are having fits trying to comment, please let us know at our Facebook group (since I'm assuming you wouldn't be able to comment on this) and let me know what it does when you try to comment or give me any info. that might help me resolve this issue. I would greatly appreciate it because we would LOVE your comments!

Some days, quick, go-to, easy, tried and true recipes are the ticket to dinnertime sanity. As I mentioned here, it seems many of my fav sisters had the same problemo- a recipe rut. So the recipe sharing began. Thanks to them, you can get outta your suppahtime rut, too, because we're sharing them with you! First, let's review:

Curry Chicken with Brown Rice (Caroline L.)
Homemade Sloppy Joes (Mandi B.)
BBQ Chicken Pizza (Mindi S.)
Black Beans and Rice/Baked Potato Night (Katie L.)

Now, for today's fun! In case you haven't heard me mention like a million times, I big fat heart this time saving, cost saving, flavor bursting tip to getting vein free (gag), grizzle free (double gag), white meat chicken breast.

If you didn't believe my the first 30 times I mentioned it, the proof is in the puddin'. So, here's your puddin'.

I recently bought two packs of those split chicken breasts when they went on sale for .99/lb. Each pack had 3 breasts and did not cost over $3 each (normally close to $8 each). Whipped those babies up in the crockpot like the tips says and here is everything I was able to make with STILL some left over.

• Chicken Nachos
• 4- Musing Foodie's Chicken Enchiladas adding black beans and green chiles
• 24 mini-Nacho Cups for freezer- using leftover Enchilada filling and Trader Joe's whole wheat ready made pizza dough. Babies LOVE these.
• Chicken Divan
• 6-Musing Foodie's Buffalo Chicken Squares- substituting biscuits cuz I was outta crescent rolls).
• 2-Buffalo Chicken wraps (w/ regular ole whole wheat tortillas using leftover buffalo chicken square filling)
• 24 mini-Buffalo Chicken "cups" for freezer (same principle as nacho cups using leftover buffalo chicken square filling). Hubs loves these and requested them to pack in his lunch.
• ...plus I gave the babes some of the chicken straight up for a dinner AND I have a whole tupperware of it in the freezer for a later date.

Convinced yet? That chicken tip really is the ticket to stretching a little bird breast a looooong way. Tell us some recipes you've come up with using this tip so we can be sure to stay out of our suppahtime ruts.

Happy Monday. Have a Marvelous one!

Free-for-all Friday: Mompreneur~SoupKids' Custom Covers

We LOVE Mompreneurs here on the Roof and we love to support them. Today is devoted to an amazing Mompreneur and her cutie patootie creations.

Ladies, meet Kristin Campbell of SoupKids (get it? Campbell Soup. I tell you what~she's good!). Kristin is a dedicated, genuine, nurturing, determined, comical, infectious wife, mom of three and friend. In fact, she was the very first friend I met on my very first day of college waaaay back when we were 18 and her friendship has been a blessing to me ever since.

Kristin has always been creative and taken her ideas to "the next level" no matter what they are. When she taught herself to sew, I knew she wouldn't stop there...and she didn't. As she birthed her new talent alongside three beautiful children, she also began the venture of SoupKids- classic, customized creations for children. You can ask my college sisterhood just how delighted we've been-especially about her mad monogramming skillz. I don't think one single one of the sisterhood's collective 40 children ranging from birth to elementary age have gotten past infancy without a SoupKids monogram or creation. We Southern girls are thrilled for the legacy to continue as long as our children will allow!

Clearly, I could go on and on but I'm excited to share SoupKids' most unique custom item. I think this is definitely my fav of Kristin's brilliant ideas. It is also one I get asked about pretty much everywhere I go--her custom covers. Kristin has multiple fabrics that you can select to cover your car seat, bouncy seat or high chair OR you may send her your fabric of choice if you wish. She will make a cover to fit your item and finish that baby off with a coordinating monogram. Here are just a few examples:

These covers have a two in one benefit. They make your baby equipment more appealing to the eye AND keep them protected from stains leaving them virtually spotless which makes them PRIME Craigslist inventory later!

If you are interested in your own personal SoupKids creation or need a FABULOUS gift, email Kristin at kcampbell84(at)nc(dot)rr(dot)com. Her going rate for the car seat cover is $68.00 if she provides the fabric. However, Kristin wanted to show the ladies of the Roof some love and if you tell her we sent you, she will give you a 10% discount! She's sweet like that. :) So, order up and share your SoupKids creations with us!

Here's to MomPreneurs! Happy Friday!

Thrifty Thursday: Summer Reading With Children

It's no secret that coming up with entertainment for the long days of summer can be a challenge to many moms. Caroline has some GREAT tips on how to provide educational, fun entertainment through READING! Thankfully, it can often be acheived at minimal or even no cost thanks to her great program suggestions.

No man can be called friendless who has God and the companionship of good books.  ~Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Many schools have already completed the school year and the summer schedule is in progress.  At the start of summer it seems like there are many weeks to enjoy one another, however, my experience is that it seems like a blink and then my precious ones are back in school.

My children are still fairly young (6 and 8) and to instill in them the love of reading I provide every possible incentive available.  We had great fun last summer doing our Library Summer Reading Program and also participated in Barnes and Noble and Borders.  Click here for a list of programs available.  They are free to join and you can print the form at home.  What a sense of accomplishment to go to the store with a completed sheet of the books read and be able to select a FREE book to add to your own personal library.  Also, create awards for reading a set amount of minutes per week and permit your child to select from the award options.  Make it fun such as frozen yogurt date out, make your own sundae night at home or even staying up an extra 30 minutes.  The key is to make reading fun and provide incentives that will motivate the personality of your individual child.

Our school participates in AR Reading (Accelerated Reader).  If you are a homeschooling family or your school does not use AR the website can still be a great resource.  Click here to go the website and select parent.  You don't have to register or provide any personal information to research books at the desired reading level.  I then make a list of what appeals to my children and is in their reading range and via my online library account  request the books.  I put a post it in the inside cover of each book with the reading level and place in a book basket.  This secures my boys are reading books that keep them challenged, however, are also at their personal ability level.  I purchased the baskets on sale at my local Hobby Lobby and placed a tag with their name on each one, thus, giving them a sense of ownership.  The books stay in the basket when not being read which also aids in getting them returned to the library on time.

Happy reading sweet sisters!  Stay turned because this summer I will also be sharing my personal recommendations for great reading for the lady of the house.

TV.  If kids are entertained by two letters, imagine the fun they'll have with twenty-six.  Open your child's imagination.  Open a book.  ~Author Unknown

Train Up Tuesday: An "Unholiday"

Did you come up with a way to beautify your view last week? (let us know the ideas your kids had!)

This week, if you're looking for an activity, consider going through your holiday idea list. You may know I love to do Advent countdown for Christmas, but I declare, even with a list and a schedule, you just don't always get to everything (and that's a GOOD thing...we all need a little flexibility). Maybe you have a craft, a recipe, or activity you didn't get to during a holiday (Christmas, Easter, Valentine's, anything). Who says you have to wait until the next time it comes around? I promise that your kids won't really care.

We did just that recently. I had purchased a Snoopy "holiday" cookie kit at Hobby Lobby on 50% off (don't sweat it, the ingredients in the box were still okay ;-). So, the boys and I did a little "unholiday" baking!

A little butter for the cookies (and a taste for this little guy!)

His first time cracking an egg...what are the CHANCES that I'd get THIS shot?!

Rolling out the dough..

Pressing out the cookie...

Time to decorate!

And being the Snoopy lover that I am, I HAD to decorate one, too!

I call it "Snoopy with a side of sunburn". Hey, who said the "unholiday" baking had to look so "holidayish"?!

So what "unholiday" ideas would get your kids excited? Ask them, and then post their favorites here!

Have fun!
Ashlie

Marvelous Monday: Deals for Dad

Hey gals! Father's day is less than 2 weeks away. Have you already found something for your guy (or Dad, Step-dad, Grandfather, etc.)?

I think men can be tough to buy for in general. My husband groans when he sees so many "suggestions" for gifts for men. More often than not, they are dust catchers and silly desk-top knick-knacks that have no real meaning or value.

One thing that I have seen make the men in my life light up are things made with photos of my boys or our family. We did calendars with photos on each month for a couple Christmases and the year we didn't do one, my father-in-law did not do a good job concealing his disappointment. I often wrack my brain trying to come up with something. Most of the men in my life don't wear ties or other accessories. They don't have hobbies for which I can buy. What to do, what to do?!

Then, a few weeks ago (Memorial Day weekend), I received an email from Vista Print about a GREAT deal on their items AND 3 day shipping for orders over $50. Now, we already know that our own Hannah here on the roof is a fan ;-). So, I thought I'd see what I could do. Well, I am MORE than happy with what I received! (*WARNING! IF YOU ARE A MAN IN MY FAMILY< STOP READING!!!! ;-) ) For $50, I got 3 personalized t-shirts, (here is one of them)

a keychain of me and my love,

A HUGE magnet,


A reusable outdoor banner (I have 3 boys, so this one will get used LOTS)

I also bought a small stamp with my oldest son's name (he loves stamping, so this will be a gift for him later) and some hanger things for the birthday banner. Not a bad deal, eh? I could have spent less if I had not uploaded photos for the gifts. Some items are even free! There are other designs you can personalize with text and no personal graphic. Check out Vista Print often, get on their mailing list for great deals. Once you try it, you'll probably be hooked! ;-)

Also, if you need a great Father's Day card, Tiny Prints has a deal that ends tomorrow - cards for 99 cents and FREE shipping if you have it sent to your home. You can personalize them with your own photos! A great deal for a card, for sure! The code is "fday99" to get his deal.

Hope you score some fun gifts!
Ashlie

Stay at Home Saturday: Savory Smackerel~No mo suppah rut Part 4

We took a little break last week for some Memorial Day inspiration, but today, we're going to resume our regularly scheduled Get outta your suppahtime rut Series. First, let's not forget the quick, easy, go-to recipes already shared from women just like you.

Curry Chicken with Brown Rice (Caroline L.)
Homemade Sloppy Joes (Mandi B.)
BBQ Chicken Pizza (Mindi S.)

Today, my girl, Katie L., has TWO quick, easy, go tos that happen to also be a couple of our favs~especially if we don't have a plan and the "5 o'clock pantry stare" bites. Katie says:

1.Black Beans and Rice is cheap and sooo good. It's a staple for us. Ground beef, yellow rice, onions, green peppers, black beans, sour cream, etc. You can really but whatever you like on there. Even some fresh guacamole is good.

I'm gonna interject and say this is also FABULOUS with a little salsa thrown in there, this chicken and mozarella cheese!

2. My other suggestion is make your own baked potatoes. Put a bunch of toppings out and let your family pick what they want on there's. Chicken, beef, cheese, veggies, etc.

Just me interjecting again-pop those babies in the microwave and they take no time. These are also fabulous with that same chicken, salsa, guacamole, deli ham, mushrooms sauteed in olive oil and cooking wine. She's right--the list is endless!

See!!!! Cooking dinner doesn't have to be intimidating or laborious with a million steps that require a million dishes to clean in order to be yum. Sometimes some of the best meals are the simple ones. Thanks for the idea(s), Katie.

Happy Saturday! Stay cool out there.

Love,
Hannah

Free-for-all Friday: Consignment Store Props & Monthly Reading Program

Awhile ago, my friend, Katie, referred me to a new consignment store in our area. I've had some bad consignment store experiences--mostly due to lack of organization--so I ventured to this new store called Kid 2 Kid with somewhat low expectations. Much to my surprise, it exceeded my expectations and I instantly fell in love.

The store was clean, organized, not crowded, pleasing to the eye...It didn't leave me with the feeling that I needed to plow through dust and moth ball odor to find a glimmer of a treasure. In fact, at just a glance, I spotted many boutique and trunk show items in excellent condition at a fraction of the cost. Right up my alley! Not to mention, the toy, book, gift (many brand new Melissa and Doug items) and BOW selection (beautiful, brand new bows of all sizes at very reasonable prices. Oh, how I love those bows!).

Kid to Kid (K2K) is a nationwide chain and we are blessed to have TWO in our hometown. I highly recommend you check their website to find the closest one to you. They have some great programs from which you can benefit.

• Income- If you consign at K2K, you have the option to receive cash or an additional 20% if you choose to receive store credit.
• Frequent Shopper's Discount- Be sure to ask for a punch card and they will stamp your card for every $10 you spend. After you fill the card, you will receive 20% off your entire purchase on your next visit.
• Discount per transaction- If you sign up for their email list, K2K will email you any sales and specials plus a monthly password so that you can receive $5 off a $25 or more purchase. This usually ends up scoring me a free bow! :)
• Reading program-This last program has been a hidden gem and you don't want to miss it if you have a K2K in your area. Praise the Lord for my friend, Tara, that spilled the beans, or boy, would we have been missing out. Turns out, K2K will give you a Book Club card per child (they even gave me one for my one year old twins) and your child (or you) can pick one book-per card-per month- FREE up to $1.99. If you select a book over $1.99, you simply pay the difference. It makes for a great summer outing and we ended up getting three precious books today for a mere $3.00 out of pocket. How perfect is that to add to your fab new book organizational system from yesterday?!?! :)

Hope you have one of these great franchises near you so you can take advantage of it's opportunities. If not, perhaps you should open one in your area?!?! Just sayin...

Happy Friday ya'll!

-Hannah

Thrifty Thursday: Best Organizational Solution EVER

Do you have overcrowded bookshelves? Do you cringe when you walk by your child's bookshelf and see it crammed with books that aren't perfectly lined according to size and width but know as soon as you organize it to your liking it will end up looking just like that again?

If you answered yes to either of those questions--oh my word!!!!!--do I have THE solution for you. This solution is so brilliant that it pretty much requires all of you to do it in your house immediately. I mean, you even may want it in like every room.

I was at my girl Anna's home for Memorial Day and walked into her playroom to witness this eye candy--a tidy semblance of books! Now, these shelves were not in her playroom the last time I was at her house, so, of course, I had to inquire. I assumed the answer would include words such as "Pottery Barn, Land of Nod, custom made, etc." Boy, was I wrong and had to pick up my jaw off the floor when the two word answer that my ears heard was, "rain gutters." Yep, you heard right--RAIN GUTTERS.

Maybe I live under a rock and this idea is old news but I find it revolutionary. Anna told me to google "rain gutter bookshelves" for a tutorial and to see the other layouts that people have implemented. I encourage you to do the same for your own personal inspiration. You will find an excellent tutorial here. This particular blog also explains that the rain gutter bookshelves "encourage children to read more because they can see the fronts of the books and are intrigued, rather than just seeing the edge of the book and not being able to tell what it is about. " Not to mention, it makes it waaaaay easier for the children to put away their books!

Already have a tidy book system? Don't put this brilliance in a box just yet! Perhaps you need a solution for your craft area/room...

or more gardening space and containers...

Are you wondering about the savings? A 2 foot version of a similar ledge from Pottery Barn would cost you $24.00 and the 3 foot would be $34.00 OR the children's version at Pottery Barn kids ranges from $39.00 to $59.00. At Home Depot, a whole 10 feet of white gutter is a mere $5.23 without any coupon or discounts. You may even be able to find some great gutters at your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. No more justifiction needed. Get busy and be sure to share how you implement this concotion. I know I'll never look at rain gutters the same.

Thank you, Anna!

Happy Thursday!

Love,
Hannah